It’s the summer holidays, Yay! I know it’s only just started but the time to buy school supplies and shoes will come around quickly. I already know I will need to buy three pairs of new school shoes for the autumn term. Why not spread the cost and buy some early? You will also beat that horrid crowd and ticket system. Where we live there are only a couple of decent shoe shops and they are always packed in the weeks before school starts.
Tips for buying school shoes
Whichever shoes you end up with, I advise getting a size up or ensuring that there is plenty of room to grow in. You don’t want them too loose, they have to be able to walk and run easily without the shoe slipping, but with just enough room that you won’t be replacing them any time soon. Get their feet measured before you try on shoes so that you are getting the correct size not only lengthways but also width. Remember, even if they measure your child’s feet you are not obligated to buy from that shop. If you don’t like any of the styles or your child is not comfortable with them, you can politely decline and go somewhere else.
Make sure the shoes you choose are durable. For children under eleven, get the ones with reinforced toes. You know your child best, if they ride scooters a lot or drag their feet they will need reinforced toe caps. The girl’s shoes tend to be not as sturdy as the boy’s shoes and with more accessories. If your daughter is very physical, consider shopping in the boy’s section. Let them have a runaround in the shop before committing to buy. Don’t forget your child’s opinion – they may hate the ones you think are the best all rounders, and then you will have a battle on your hands.
More expensive doesn’t always mean better quality. I’ve paid for more expensive shoes only for them to fall apart after one term and had cheaper shoes that lasted nearly all year. My older two are at secondary school and they walk quite a distance each day, and they seem to go through shoes the most. If you find a brand of shoe that fits your child well and lasts, stick with it.
To sum up, these are the main points to consider when buying school shoes for the first time, and even the last time, sob.
- Get Professionally Measured: Have your child’s feet measured by a professional at a shoe store to ensure an accurate fit. Feet can grow quickly, so measuring them every few months is advisable.
- Consider Both Feet: Children often have one foot that is slightly larger than the other. Always choose a size that fits the larger foot.
- Allow for Growth: There should be about a thumb’s width (approximately half an inch) of space between the end of the longest toe and the front of the shoe.
- Check the Heel: The heel should fit snugly to prevent slipping, which can cause blisters and discomfort.
- Width Matters: Ensure the shoes are not too tight across the widest part of the foot. Many brands offer different width options.
- Arch Support: Look for shoes with good arch support to promote healthy foot development.
- Cushioning: Shoes should have adequate cushioning to absorb shock and provide comfort during long days of wear.
- Flexibility: The soles should be flexible enough to bend with your child’s foot, particularly at the ball of the foot.
- Quality Materials: Opt for shoes made from durable materials like leather or high-quality synthetics that can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Reinforced Toes: Consider shoes with reinforced toe areas to protect against scuffing and damage.
- Ventilation: Shoes with breathable materials or perforations can help keep feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of odours and fungal infections.
- Moisture-Wicking Linings: Linings that wick away moisture can also help keep feet dry and comfortable.
- Easy Fastenings: For younger children, consider shoes with Velcro straps, elastic laces, or other easy-to-fasten options. Older children might prefer traditional laces.
- Non-Slip Soles: Look for shoes with non-slip soles to provide good traction and prevent slips and falls.
- Comfort Test: Have your child walk around the store in the shoes to ensure they are comfortable and don’t cause any discomfort.
- Style Preferences: While comfort and fit are paramount, involving your child in choosing a style they like can make them more excited about wearing the shoes.
- Uniform Requirements: Ensure the shoes meet any specific uniform requirements or guidelines set by the school.
- Value Over Price: While it’s important to stay within budget, prioritize the quality and durability of the shoes over the price to ensure they last longer and provide better support.
- Sales and Discounts: Look out for back-to-school sales and discounts which can help you get quality shoes at a more affordable price.
- Monitor Growth: Children’s feet grow quickly, so be prepared to replace school shoes regularly to ensure they always have a well-fitting, comfortable pair.
So, how do the shoezone shoes measure up? We got a pair of trainers for my daughter to use for PE and a pair of school shoes for my youngest son to review. You can buy from Shoezone online via their easy-to-use and secure website, or you can search for your nearest UK store here. We have one in our town and I have shopped there before for school shoes and been satisfied with them for the price point. I have also bought wellies and fashion shoes for myself from them before.
XL Lune Kids Easy Fastener Trainer Review
The Lune trainers are really comfy (my daughter and I are the same size) with a padded insole. The style and colour make them a perfect option for PE, they are standard black but lined with hot pink for self-expression. They have velcro fastening and elastic laces, making them easy to get on and off. They are currently £12.99, making them an excellent budget option. They will easily last for PE for the year. They come in sizes from infant size 9 up to adult size 5. My daughter also likes that they make her feel taller. We found them true to size.
XL Clyde Easy Fasten Kids Trainers Review
My 9 year old still struggles with doing up laces, so we always look for easy fasten shoes when we shop for back-to-school options. The Clyde easy fasten trainer shoes are currently £9.99 making them excellent value for money. Daniel says they are comfortable and light to wear and easy to get on and off. He is happy with the style of the shoes. I like that they are breathable and light, comfortable and have a reinforced toe. There is a padded reinforcement to the ankle to reduce any rubbing. The sole is hard and gripped for fewer playground slips and falls.
